A Walk in the Park - Visit to the upper Buffalo

— I mentioned a while back my intention to spend some time visiting and writing about places within a fifty mile radius of home. I do, however, recall giving myself an “out” by stating that I might occasionally include a really neat place located a little farther than fifty miles away. I will make that exception this week.

Although I have seen many beautiful parts of Arkansas, and no doubt have many more to discover, the upper Buffalo River area in western Newton County is a favorite region I return to every chance I get.

I grew up 10 or 12 rough and hilly miles from the upper Buffalo, but it was not until the river gained its national designation in the early 1970s and became more accessible to the public that I began to form my long-lasting appreciation for the area. I realize thatthe memories of enjoyable visits formed over the years have bonded me to the area. Even without that, the region obviously has much to offer anyone interested in the gems to be found off the beaten path in this ruggedly beautiful area of the Ozarks.

Many come here each year for outdoor adventures such as camping, hiking and canoeing, but with a few strategic stops, even a drive though the area can make a terrific springtime outing.

Some of my favorite points of interest along the way can be found miles before reaching the river. For instance, the view of the hills and valleys during thelast few miles of the drive into Kingston on highway 21 south is nothing short of picturesque, especially at this time of year. The friendliness of local drivers who are more likely than not to wave when they meet you adds to the fun.

Next, providing you don’t blink, you will see the tiny town of Kingston with buildings looking much as they have for a century or more, all nestled around what I’m guessing is the about the smallest town square in the state. It’s just plain charming - my bias, I know - and if you have never seen it, you really should.

From Kingston, Highway 21 continues south to Boxley, then intersects with Highway 43, marking the entrance to the Boxley Valley along the upper Buffalo River. This is a very scenic area with lots of wildlife. Elk may be spotted grazing the bottom land along the river, and swans can often be seen in the millpond near Ponca.

Veering right at this intersection keeps you on Highway 21 and leads to Boxley Baptist. This is a quaint little white church surrounded by a cemetery and a backdrop of hills. It is a pretty scene which has been the subject of many photographs, some of which have appeared on magazine and book covers.

Traveling left at Boxley leads first to Lost Valley, a nice park with a great hiking trail (with waterfall and cave) and then to Ponca. Ponca is known for its canoe outfitters, rental cabins and trails to hike. An interesting stop in Ponca is the Elk Center, with many handson wildlife exhibits.

A turn onto nearby Highway 74 leads to another site to which I often return. Up a series of S-curves and a turn to the left and down an adventurously steep and curvy hill brings you to Steel Creek. It is a beautiful camping area located where Steel Creek runs into the Buffalo. Here it is possible to get an up-close look at Roark Bluff which runs along the river and towers hundreds of feet above it. Quite a lot can be seen see even from a car window, but I highly recommend getting out and walking the short distance to the river along the bluff behind the campsites.

A few miles further toward Jasper is another of my favorite scenic places.Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is a guest ranch with cabins, a lodge built of logs and beautiful views of rugged bluff lines. This is also a popular destination for rock climbers

There are of course many other pretty places to see in the area. Just the mention of a few of my favorites puts me in the mood to head back that direction again soon. Even if it is a bit of a drive - a couple of hours or so - I can’t think of a better time than spring to travel to the upper Buffalo River area, one of the most scenic areas in the natural state.

By the way, view the journal and galleries on this Web site, www.TimErnst. com, if you would like to see nature photos taken in this and other areas around the state.

Annette Rowe is a freelance writer and a speechlanguage pathologist at Siloam Springs High School. She may be reached by email at awalkinthepark50 @ yahoo.com.

Opinion, Pages 5 on 04/07/2010